Professional Summary

Professional Overview

Austin Okere is a seasoned entrepreneur, executive, and educator with a proven track record of driving innovation and success in the technology and business sectors. As the Vice Chairman of CWG PLC, a leading IT services provider in Nigeria, he is responsible for shaping the strategic direction of the company and overseeing its continued growth and expansion. Additionally, he serves as the Founder and Entrepreneur-in-Residence at the Ausso Leadership Academy, where he mentors and empowers the next generation of business leaders.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

Vice Chairman, CWG PLC (2016 - Present)

• Provides strategic leadership and oversight for the company's operations, ensuring the effective execution of its business objectives

• Drives the company's digital transformation initiatives, leveraging emerging technologies to enhance service delivery and competitive advantage

• Spearheads the expansion of CWG PLC's footprint across Africa, contributing to the company's position as a leading IT services provider in the region

Founder and Entrepreneur-in-Residence, Ausso Leadership Academy (2018 - Present)

• Established the Ausso Leadership Academy to nurture and empower aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders

• Delivers executive-level training and mentorship programs, drawing on his extensive experience as a successful entrepreneur and business leader

• Leverages his network and industry expertise to connect program participants with growth opportunities and strategic partnerships

Entrepreneur in Residence, Columbia Business School (2010 - Present)

• Serves as a visiting faculty member, sharing his entrepreneurial insights and experiences with students and faculty

• Collaborates with the school's entrepreneurship center to develop and deliver tailored programs for aspiring entrepreneurs

• Provides advisory and mentorship support to students and early-stage startups within the Columbia ecosystem

Teacher, Executive Programme, Lagos Business School (2011 - Present)

• Designs and delivers specialized executive education programs, focusing on entrepreneurship, innovation, and digital transformation

• Leverages his extensive industry experience to provide practical, hands-on learning opportunities for senior-level professionals

• Contributes to the school's thought leadership in the areas of technology, leadership, and business strategy

Past Roles

Management Consultant, CWG PLC (2015 - 2017)

• Advised the company on strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and drive growth

• Played a key role in the implementation of digital transformation projects, enabling the company to better serve its clients

• Spearheaded the development of new service offerings and go-to-market strategies to maintain the company's competitive edge

Member, Governing Council and Chairman, ICT committee, Institute of Directors (2015 - 2018)

• Provided strategic guidance and oversight for the Institute's ICT-related initiatives and programs

• Championed the adoption of technology and digital solutions to enhance the Institute's service delivery and member engagement

• Contributed to the development of industry-leading best practices and standards for corporate governance and IT governance

Academic Background

Austin Okere holds a Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering from the University of Lagos, Nigeria. He has also completed executive education programs at leading institutions, including the Columbia Business School and the Lagos Business School.

Areas of Expertise

• Entrepreneurship and business strategy

• Digital transformation and technology innovation

• IT services and solutions

• Executive leadership and management

• Talent development and mentorship

Professional Impact

• Spearheaded the digital transformation of CWG PLC, enabling the company to enhance its service delivery and maintain its market leadership

• Established the Ausso Leadership Academy, which has empowered hundreds of aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders across Africa

• Served as a trusted advisor and thought leader, contributing to the growth and development of the technology and business communities in Nigeria and beyond

Conclusion

Austin Okere is a dynamic and visionary leader who has made significant contributions to the technology and entrepreneurship ecosystem in Africa. With his extensive experience, industry expertise, and dedication to nurturing the next generation of business leaders, he is well-positioned to continue driving innovation and creating lasting impact in the years to come.